Your November Playlist: The Month’s Best New Music

November marks the official start of holiday season, giving everyone
other than turkeys and scrooges a reason to smile. If thoughts of
Thanksgiving pumpkin pie aren't enough to lift your spirits, there is a
cornucopia of fun new albums out this month. Here are the songs you
should listen to...

When you’re walking off the leftover Halloween
candy:

Solange’s “Losing You” fromTrue, out Nov. 27. Solange is more than just Beyonce’s little
sister, and with the help of her laid-back, catchy tune, you’ll be
losing those pounds for good. Now, how many miles do you need to walk to
burn off 13 fun-size chocolate bars?

When you’re celebrating the election results:

Alicia Keys’ “Girl on Fire” fromGirl on Fire, out Nov. 27. Even if your preferred candidates
weren’t elected, it’s still pretty awesome that there will be more
female senators in the 113th Congress than ever before in history. Cheer
on the likes of Tammy Baldwin and Elizabeth Warren with this
female-empowerment track.

When you’re stuffing your face on
Thanksgiving:

Dirty Projectors’ “About to Die”
from About to Die, out Nov. 6. You can’t resist your mom’s
mashed potatoes…or her golden roast turkey, chestnut stuffing and
dozens of pies. It’s fine to indulge in the holiday feast, but afterward
you might feel, well, like you’re about to die.

When you’re hitting the club to escape the chilly
air:

Christina Aguilera’s “Your Body”
from Lotus, out Nov. 13. Xtina is back in full force, and
there’s still no one as dirrrty as our favorite diva. Channel her energy
as you shake it. Consider dancing your holiday cardio.

When you’re braving the crowds on Black Friday:

Sufjan
Stevens’ “Mr. Frosty Man” from Silver & Gold, out Nov. 13. Take a deep
breath and remember that it’s not the end of the world if you don’t snag
one of the ridiculously discounted TVs at Best Buy. ‘Tis the season for
merriment and good will, and Sufjan’s quirky melodies will put you back
in the holiday spirit.